So I am on four different waitlists. There are two schools (group A) that I would definitely attend if admitted (meaning I'd withdraw everywhere else) and two schools (group B) that I would attend only if I weren't also admitted to one of the schools in group A. How does one play this? If one of the group B schools admits me off the waitlist, would I be able to accept an offer from one of the group A schools later? Does accepting an offer of admission off a waitlist require you to withdraw from all other waitlists?

tycho_brahe wrote:So I am on four different waitlists. There are two schools (group A) that I would definitely attend if admitted (meaning I'd withdraw everywhere else) and two schools (group B) that I would attend only if I weren't also admitted to one of the schools in group A. How does one play this? If one of the group B schools admits me off the waitlist, would I be able to accept an offer from one of the group A schools later? Does accepting an offer of admission off a waitlist require you to withdraw from all other waitlists?

Withdraw from all, since I'm likely on the same waitlists...

But seriously, rank the four, tell your top school that you'd go there if admitted without question, and tell the other three you're still interested. If admitted to one, withdraw from all beneath it and stay on the waitlists for the schools ranked above it (if allowed-which it should be-and if you're okay with losing multiple deposits)

My best guess is that whether or not you can accept to more than one seat depends on the school. But given that these seats tend to become available late, I wouldn't be at all surprised if they rush your deposit and maybe even withdrawal from other schools.

Also, if you haven't already, visit all these schools. Not only to show your face, but to be sure what your preferences are.